Commenting on the Spanish government’s £3.3 billion support
package for the country’s automotive sector, Unite assistant
general secretary Steve Turner said:
“Spain has followed France and Germany in providing time critical
support to keep their automotive industries on the road and
playing their part in meeting the need to switch to low and zero
carbon transport.
“But in the UK, we’re now nearly three months into the
government’s lockdown and our world class automotive industry and
the thousands of jobs that rely on it are in need of immediate
assistance – as the 1,100 JLR jobs that went yesterday highlight.
“Ministers must stop sitting on their hands and take action now
with a package of support for the sector. This must include new
vehicle discounts and incentive schemes, infrastructure
investment and transition grants to support the manufacture of
electric vehicles here in the UK and in line with industry
approved proposals by the Society for Motor Manufacturers and
Traders.
“It is imperative that sales to public sector fleet replacements
are brought forward, private fleet early renewals encouraged, and
individual owners incentivised with discounts on new sales of all
vehicles.
“Additional grant support should be targeted at electric and
hybrid vehicles, as well as for low emission diesel and petrol
engines, ensuring revenue streams are protected to allow for
vital investment in future technologies.
“Government must move beyond the soundbite to ‘take back control’
of how we spend taxpayers’ money. Public procurement policy
should prioritise the purchase of UK built vehicles, supporting
further investment in domestic supply chains and infrastructure.
Tens of thousands of good, skilled jobs are at risk.
“With a clear plan of action these jobs can be retained and
enhanced, our towns and cities can be cleaned up and the nation’s
road transport system made fit for a green future.”
